Course Descriptions

PSYC 110: Introduction to Psychology

This course provides a broad, general introduction to the field of psychology, the scientific study of behavior. Topics surveyed include scientific methodology, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning, thinking, memory, motivation and emotion, development, personality, stress and health, psychological disorders and psychotherapy, social interaction, and diversity. Satisfactory completion of Psychology 110 is a prerequisite for most advanced courses in psychology, which generally cover in greater depth and breadth the topics you will encounter in this course. Three lectures and one laboratory per week. (Meets GEC First-Year Writing Requirement.)

PSYC 191: Tutorial

PSYC 195: Cross-Cultural Psychology

The subtle transaction between culture and behavior will be explored cross-culturally through the following topics: psychotherapy, a person's sense of self-control versus situational control of one's own behavior, need for achievement, stages in moral development, and management styles in work environments. Comparisons will emphasize data from the United States and Japan. (Meets GEC Cultural Diversity Requirement.)

PSYC 205: Stereotype,Prejudice,Discrimination

An examination of psychological approaches to the problems of prejudice and discrimination. Topics covered include the prevalence of prejudice in American society, theoretical perspectives on the causes of prejudice, the psychological processes underlying different forms of prejudice (e.g., racism, sexism, ageism, homophobia, and ethnocentrism), and methods of combating prejudice and encouraging acceptance of diversity. Such topics will be explored through examination of classic and contemporary research. (Meets GEC Cultural Diversity Requirement.)

Cross-listed as: AFAM 205, AMER 201

PSYC 206: Human Sexuality

This course focuses on psychological aspects of human sexuality, including the sexual response cycle, intimate relationships, sexual orientations and identities, and sexual health and disease. The course aims to familiarize students with methods used in scientific research on sexuality, to encourage them to think critically about sexual issues, to help them develop a better understanding of sexual diversity, and to enable them to become responsible sexual decision makers. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing required. PSYC 110 recommended.

Cross-listed as: GSWS 206

PSYC 208: Psychology of Career Development

How do people choose their jobs? Why do certain types of people gravitate toward certain types of occupations? How can people identify the careers in which they are most likely to be happy and successful? Questions such as these are central to vocational psychology, the scientific study of people's career choices and outcomes throughout the lifespan. In this course we will examine: (a) the major theories of vocational behavior; (b) individual differences and societal factors that shape people's career paths; (c) the relations among career, family, and other life roles; (d) assessment instruments used for career planning and decision making; (e) the career counseling process; and (f) the role of gender and culture in career choice and development. Students will also have some opportunities to explore their own career paths. Prerequisite: at least sophomore standing. PSYC 110 is recommended but is not required.

PSYC 209: History & Philosophy of Psyc

How did the field of psychology become what it is today? In this course we will trace the history of psychology, from its origins in philosophy to its modern place among the social and behavioral sciences. We will examine the development of the discipline's fundamental assumptions regarding human nature, society, and methodology. We will consider where such assumptions came from, how they evolved over time, and how they shape psychological research and practice today. We will focus on both pure laboratory research (e.g., learning theory) as well as applied, societal contributions (particularly clinical psychology). Prerequisite: Psychology 110

PSYC 210: Developmental Psychology

An examination of the principles of development with an emphasis on interpretation of empirical studies and theories. We stress the ongoing interplay of biological and environmental forces as influences on development; place development in a broad context of culture, class, and history; view children and adolescents as active shapers of their environment; emphasize both continuity and the capacity for change; and consider implications of developmental psychology for educators, practitioners, parents and policymakers. Prerequisite: Psychology 110.

Cross-listed as: GSWS 210

PSYC 211: Adulthood and Aging

Examination of developmental processes associated with adulthood, maturity, and aging. Examination of evidence for continued development throughout the life span. Evidence from a variety of sources is used in examining the person in terms of physical, psychological, social, and cultural influences on development. Prerequisite: Psychology 110.

Cross-listed as: GSWS 211

PSYC 215: Environmental Psychology

Environmental psychology is the discipline concerned with interactions and relationships between people and their environments (including built, natural, and social environments). In this course we apply psychological methods and theories to a variety of issues and behaviors, considering such topics as landscape preference, wayfinding, weather, noise, natural disasters, territoriality, crowding, and the design of residential and work environments. We also explore images of nature, wilderness, home, and place, as well as the impact of these images on behavior. The course is grounded in empirical work, and incorporates observations and experiences in the local environment. No prerequisite.

PSYC 216: Sanity, "Madness" & Society

Mental illness is not only a disorder of the mind but a social issue as well. Societal stresses contribute to the onset of many of these illnesses and reduce the likelihood of overcoming the problem. How stigma, public policy, and social stressors relate to the development and continuance of mental illness will be explored through lectures, readings, and field experiences in a variety of mental health settings. No prerequisite.

PSYC 221: Research Methods & Stats I Lab

An introduction to the basic research methods and statistical techniques used in psychology. In the first semester, the primary focus will be on descriptive and relational methods (e.g., naturalistic observation, surveys, correlational designs) and descriptive statistics. In the second semester the primary focus will be on controlled experiments and inferential statistics. The course sequence includes a required laboratory component in which students gain hands-on experience using statistical software to analyze psychological data. Prerequisite for 221: Psychology 110 with a grade of at least C-. Psychology 221 and 222 must be taken in sequence.

PSYC 222: Research Methods & Stats II

An introduction to the basic research methods and statistical techniques used in psychology. In the first semester, the primary focus will be on descriptive and relational methods (e.g., naturalistic observation, surveys, correlational designs) and descriptive statistics. In the second semester the primary focus will be on controlled experiments and inferential statistics. The course sequence includes a required laboratory component in which students gain hands-on experience using statistical software to analyze psychological data. Prerequisite for 222: Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-. Psychology 221 and 222 must be taken in sequence.

PSYC 255: Social Psychology

Survey of the major topics of inquiry in social psychology: attitudes, social cognition, attribution, social norms and roles, conformity, social influence, persuasion, group dynamics, aggression, altruism, interpersonal attraction, stereotyping and prejudice, and conflict and peacemaking. Emphasis on applying social psychological principles to real-world phenomena as well as understanding basic research. Prerequisite: Psychology 110.

PSYC 310: Sensation and Perception

As you go through your day, you are constantly sensing and perceiving: You feel the warmth of the hot shower on your skin, you smell the aroma of the coffee in your cup, you taste the disagreeable tartness of your orange juice after brushing your teeth, you see the bright colors of the spring day on your way to class, you hear the words of your instructor and you organize them into coherent ideas. This course explores the anatomy and physiology of the sensory systems and the way in which the raw sensory signals become organized into meaningful perceptions. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C-.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 310

PSYC 318: Psychology Applied to Education

In this course, we examine a series of questions about how psychological knowledge can inform and improve education. What does psychology tell us about teaching and learning? How do we measure the success of various educational practices? What is the best way to describe the psychological processes by which students gain information and expertise? What accounts for individual differences in learning, and how do teachers (and schools) address these individual needs? How do social and economic factors shape teaching practices and the educational experiences of individual students? Some of our work in this course will involve reading and discussion; a significant portion of the time will be spent observing children in their educational environments. Prerequisites: Psychology 110 and at least sophomore standing.

PSYC 320: Learning

This course examines the theoretical approaches, historical influences, and contemporary research in human and animal learning. In addition to providing a strong background in classical, operant, and contemporary conditioning models, this course explores the applications of these principles in a variety of contexts, such as behavioral therapy, drug addiction, self-control, decision-making, motor skill acquisition, and education. Furthermore, this course surveys the commonalities and differences across species in cognitive processes, such as memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and language. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C-.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 320

PSYC 321: Psychology Research in Community

Psychological research takes place in a wide variety of community settings including local schools, museums, and social service agencies. In this course, you will put your knowledge of research methods and statistics into practice by working on a research project in a community setting. Students can join one of several projects that are already underway, or they can initiate a new project in consultation with the instructor. Prerequisites: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- and permission of the instructor.

PSYC 325: Sales Communications

This course, designed largely for juniors and seniors who are looking forward to careers, emphasizes interrelations between academic and practical realms. What do basic principles of psychology suggest in regard to marketing, personal salesmanship, and stock market prices? In what ways is our knowledge of human psychology deepened by studying our consumer society? Readings include empirical journal articles as well as historical and current books. Discussions, independent projects, papers, examinations, and a strong emphasis on informed oral participation by students. Alumni mentors in sales professions visit at regular intervals, giving descriptions of their industries and careers. Prerequisites: sophomore standing and Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-, or comparable preparation, from courses in other departments, in understanding and summarizing scientific journal articles.

PSYC 330: Motivation & Emotion

The broad range of motivations and emotions is studied including the relative contributions of learning, genetics, and critical periods in development. How and why did motivations and emotions evolve, and what are their bases in brain systems, hormones, and other aspects of physiology? Which of our motivations involve accurate regulations to a 'set point' (such as body temperature and weight) and which do not? How does the great subtlety of human emotional expression develop? Includes consideration of competency, security, creativity, frustration, aggression, love, sexuality, and values. Prerequisite: Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-.

PSYC 340: Psychology of Sex and Gender

This course examines theory and research related to gender, sexuality, and their interactions. Topics include those traditionally associated with gender (such as sex differences and similarities, sex stereotypes, and gender learning) as well as those traditionally associated with human sexuality (such as the biology of human sexual response, love and sexual relationships, sexual orientation, and sexual health issues). We will consider the interrelationships between these topics, and think critically about their portrayal in academic and popular media. Prerequisites: Psychology 110 and sophomore standing. (Meets GEC Cultural Diversity Requirement.)

Cross-listed as: GSWS 340

PSYC 345: Organizational & Industrial Psych

The human side of management; why people work; increasing workers' motivation; enhancing the productivity of work groups; interpersonal relations in work settings; effective leadership in organizations. Prerequisite: Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-.

PSYC 346: Org: Sesquicen of Leadership

The importance and impact of effective leadership in organizations. Basic applications of leadership theories, the identification of leadership characteristics and styles as applied to top performing organizations. Among the organizational leadership approaches that would be explored are 1) person-related theories; 2) behavior-related theories; 3) Fiedler's contingency theory; 4) path-goal theory; 5) leader-member exchange theory; 6) transformational leadership; and 7) diversity in leadership with respect to gender, ethnic minorities and cross-cultural patterns of leadership. Students would learn first hand about the different types of leadership styles and characteristics and then attempt to apply theory to actual examples. How can we apply the modern techniques of social science research methods and statistics to assist in avoiding hindsight bias, when we formulate our judgments?

PSYC 350: Abnormal Psychology

Intended to acquaint students with the biological, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive foundations of psychopathology. Issues of classification, description, etiology, and treatment of abnormal behavior are examined from the point of view of contemporary empirically based perspectives. Specifically, these issues are considered in the context of a variety of psychopathological manifestations, including anxiety, eating, schizophrenic, mood, personality, addictive, and sexual disorders. Prerequisite: Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 350

PSYC 355: Community Psych

Community Psychologists study individuals in the contexts of their communities - e.g., families, peer groups, schools, workplaces, religious groups, culture, and society - and strive to engage collaboratively in research and community action work to ameliorate social problems, enhance the overall well-being of the community and its members, and make positive public policy changes. In this course, we will: (1) Consider the goals and roles of Community Psychologists; (2) Examine how social structures and community problems affect individuals' lives, and analyze our own underlying assumptions about these issues; (3) Consider the importance of diversity and psychological sense of community; (4) Explore methods & strategies for citizen participation and social change; and (5) Learn to use psychological research to inform social policy change and prevention efforts. Topics may include: Family Violence; Foster Care; Racism & the Justice System; Community Organizing for Rights (e.g., Civil Rights, Workers' Rights, Women's Rights); Community Organizing Against Harms (e.g., Hazardous Waste); Community Mental Health; Poverty & Homelessness; Children and Welfare Reform; Community Violence Prevention; Adaptation and Coping with Disaster (e.g., 9/11, Hurricane Katrina); and Advocacy on Capitol Hill - The Tobacco Lobby and Teenage Smoking. Prerequisite: Psychology 110 or equivalent. (Meets GEC Cultural Diversity Requirement.)

Cross-listed as: GSWS 355

PSYC 360: Cognitive Psychology

Surveys the history, philosophy, and research surrounding selected issues in cognitive psychology, including perception, attention, memory, language, imagery, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Students will learn what is currently known about these topics, the problems facing researchers, and how researchers go about solving these problems. They also will be given the opportunity to experience cognitive psychology research first-hand, as they participate in classic experiments and learn to analyze, interpret, and write up their results. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C-.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 360

PSYC 370: Neuroscience and Behavior

How do the brain's neurons, synapses, and electrical and chemical activities participate in psychological processes? What are the neural foundations of human perception, motivation and emotion, learning, memory, movement, and consciousness? Discussion of the modes of action of antidepressants, other psychotherapeutic drugs, and drugs of abuse. In what ways are functions localized in the brain, and how is it possible for recovery from brain damage to take place? Laboratory sessions include experiments in brain foundations of sensation, movement, emotion, and learning in animals, demonstration of human brain waves, comparison of brains with computers, and basic exercises in computerized data acquisition and analysis. Prerequisite: a college course in mathematics or natural science approved by the instructor (such as the core introductory courses in biology or chemistry) or Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 370

PSYC 372: Pharmacology: Drug, Brain, Behavior

In this course, we will explore ideas and principles regarding neuronal communication and drug interactions that govern behavior. We will explore communication patterns of both electrical and chemical signaling, define complex dynamics of drug distributions and identify how these processes are influenced by individual genetics. This class will also investigate the interaction between neurotransmitters and drugs at specific neuronal receptors, which will be discussed from the perspective of agonism and antagonism. We will use these principles to guide our understanding of pharmaco-therapeutics that are focused on symptom targeting. Students will also have the opportunity to discuss clinical cases and participate in the development of strategic therapeutic approaches based on current research towards the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders. Prerequisites: PSYC110 and BIOL221 with a grade of at least C-, or permission of instructor.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 372, BIOL 372

PSYC 375: Personality

This course offers a general introduction to the study of personality. It surveys the major theoretical perspectives and research issues in the field of personality psychology. In particular, the contributions made by psychodynamic, humanistic, trait, and cognitive-behavioral theories to the study of personality development, personality assessment, and personality change will be reviewed. Students will be encouraged to examine critically the diversity of those theoretical formulations, their basic assumptions, and the research evidence available to support them. The area of personality assessment will receive particular attention. Test construction and relevant psychometric issues will be examined during lectures, class discussions, and paper assignments. Prerequisite: Psychology 221 with a grade of at least C-.

PSYC 380: Practicum: Internships

Supervised practice in applying psychological principles in research, organizational, and service settings outside the College. A wide array of placements is available, including mental health facilities, social service agencies, corporate and military environments, school counseling programs, and non-profit organizations; we work with students to adapt internships to their individual interests and goals. Students should initiate plans, in collaboration with the instructor, during the semester preceding the internship. All internships in psychology are done within this course and include an accompanying on-campus seminar. Open to junior and senior psychology majors with permission of the instructor. (Because the practicum experience varies, students may be permitted to repeat.)

PSYC 410: History and Systems of Psych

This course overviews psychological thought and methodology from the emergence of the discipline out of philosophy and the natural sciences to the social science we know today. You will learn about prominent psychological theories and methodologies from a historical perspective. A major focus will be on experimental psychology as it began in 19th century German universities and continued in the United States. The other main focus will be on the development of applied fields such as clinical psychology and industrial/organizational psychology. We will read original works by significant historical figures in psychology, as well as papers by historians. Special attention will be given to the recurring controversies that have fueled debate and motivated research on the nature and origins of human behavior and mental processes. In addition, you will be introduced to the process of historiography, i.e. the theory and methods that underlie the research and writing of history. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or senior standing in another major or permission of the instructor. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology.

PSYC 420: Learning/Evolution Human Behavior

New perspectives emerge when we think about psychology in terms of biological evolution. What is the focus of human adaptations: The individual? One's family? One's group? Your so-called 'selfish genes'? How did the human brain, its mental capacities and emotions, evolve? In what ways are we the same as, and different from, other species? In what ways is your life story the product of the history of human societies and of the longer history of biological evolution? Readings in empirical and theoretical scientific journals and interdisciplinary perspectives, with an emphasis on student papers, oral presentations, and discussion. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or advanced standing in another major, with permission of the instructor. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology and neuroscience.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 420

PSYC 430: Psychology and Law

An examination of psycholegal research, theory, and practice. Sample topics include: psychological testing in education and employment; clinical assessments of insanity, competence, and dangerousness; eyewitness testimony; polygraphs and lie detection; psychological profiling; the psychology of false confessions; psychologists as trial consultants; jury decision making; capital punishment; and discrimination in the legal system. As we survey the field we will consider how psychology can help the law and how studying the law enriches psychology. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or advanced standing in another major, with permission of the instructor. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology.

PSYC 440: Clinical Psychology

(Offered Less Frequently)This course is designed to help prepare students for graduate school in clinical psychology or for employment in clinical settings by providing instruction and practicum apprentice experience in the diagnosis and remediation of individual, child, marriage, family, and community problems. Prerequisites: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- and Psychology 330, 350, or 375. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology.

PSYC 450: Health Psychology

This course explores a variety of research and clinical issues in health psychology. Representative topics include the role of behavior in health and disease, the neurobiology of emotion, the major stress-related and behavior-related disorders (e.g., coronary heart disease, cancer, headaches, AIDS), prevention strategies, and psychologically based treatment approaches. Our primary focus will be a methodological and conceptual analysis of the health psychology literature, which we will consider from a scientific perspective. An understanding of these issues, however, should help you become a more critical consumer of health information and health advice offered by the media, and may inspire you to make positive changes in your own health-related behavior and lifestyle. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or advanced standing in another major, with permission of the instructor. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology or neuroscience.

Cross-listed as: NEUR 450

PSYC 460: Psychology of Language

(Offered Less Frequently)Every major theoretical approach to human behavior has attempted to explain how humans learn and use language. Information-processing theories and computer models of the mind have had an impact on ancient questions concerning verbal behavior. Topics covered include philosophy of language, history of psycholinguistics, the influence of context, common ground and world knowledge in language understanding, lexical processing and lexical ambiguity, syntactic processing, inferences in discourse processing, speech acts, pragmatics, figurative language, conceptual metaphors, and poetic metaphors. Readings include original journal articles and manuscripts in preparation that illustrate the 'cutting edge' controversies in contemporary psycholinguistics. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or advanced standing in another major, with permission of the instructor. Preference in registration to graduating seniors majoring in psychology.

PSYC 470: Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is a global problem that occurs in many forms (e.g., dating violence, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault). In this course we will examine psychological research and theory on gender-based violence perpetration, prevention, and treatment. In this examination, we will consider: the prevalence of gender-based violence; the influence of the media influences; the roles of ethnicity, sexual orientation, and culture; the effects of gender-based violence on mental and physical health; and the helpful and unhelpful ways in which communities respond to such violence. Prerequisite: Psychology 222 with a grade of at least C- or advanced standing in another major, with permission of the instructor. Preference in registration will be given to graduating seniors majoring in psychology.

PSYC 480: Senior Seminar

(Offered Less Frequently)Contemporary issues in a broad range of topics will be examined via discussion between psychology faculty and invited students. Among the areas discussed will be personality, learning, social psychology, and developmental psychology. Prerequisite: Senior standing; by invitation.